In the past, the conventional wisdom among too many “urban” planners was that agricultural zoning was little more than a “holding zone” for vacant land, waiting for development at some future time.

Today, there is a growing understanding that communities wishing to preserve the agricultural economy and unique character of our rural places must do more than simply respond and react to development pressures. Planning for the future of rural Michigan communities and expanding local choices for food production is part of the mission of Building Place.  Planning for agriculture and local food sourcing should be part of local community planning, whether your community is urban or rural in character.


Store Wars: The Organic Rebellion. Not long ago in a supermarket not so far away…

Planning for Agriculture

With agritourism flourishing, it’s an exciting time for agriculture in Michigan. Sustaining the momentum requires careful planning – the kind of planning that considers every detail from property taxes to road rules.  Building Place Consultants specialize in rural planning and development, and are ready to  help local government leaders get up to speed on the latest developments that impact agricultural planning, including:

  • The Michigan Right to Farm Act, GAAMPS and ocal land use regulations - how to promote home gardening and diversify income for farmers while protecting neighbors from potential nuisances
  • Farmland preservation options and challenges
  • Roads 101 - emerging issues are in agriculture and transportation
  • Farm markets and agri-tourism
  • Ways to grow the local rural economy
  • The future of agriculture in Michigan

    To learn more about how Building Place can help your community plan for agriculture or include value-added agricultural activities in your zoning ordinance, contact us here.

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